Visit Rennes

Rennes is the capital of Brittany, yet the city has retained a small-town charm. It is also an ideal base for exploring nearby sites such as Mont Saint-Michel and the Region of Brittany.

For more details, visit: Tourisme Rennes.

Note: For those who might like to explore Rennes in a more personal and informal way, there is also the option of connecting with local "greeters". These are volunteers who offer free, friendly walks around the city, sharing their favourite places and stories. Some greeters in Rennes speak English, making this an easy and welcoming option for international participants. If this sounds appealing, you are very welcome to arrange this directly with a greeter at a time and place that suits you. This is entirely optional and self-organised, but can be a lovely way to experience the city from a local perspective.

More information about the "greeters" network:

• Greeters: Rennes
• Greeters: Saint-Malo
• Greeters: France

Rennes and its monuments

Timeless treasures await in the city centre, including:

• Parlement de Bretagne: iconic landmark, 17th-century courthouse with painted ceilings
• Rennes Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Rennes): neoclassical cathedral, coronation site of the Dukes of Brittany
• Portes Mordelaises: medieval city gates from the 15th century

Urban escapes

Parks and strolls in Rennes include:

• Parc du Thabor: a 10-hectar park located near the IGR-IAE; French, English, and botanical gardens
• Prairies Saint Martin: scenic strolls, cycling, picnics along the Ille River
• Parc des Gayeulles: woodland and lakes, ideal for long walks or camping

Museums

Notable museums in Rennes:

• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rennes: European paintings (including works by Latour and Rubens), contemporary art, and archaeological artefacts
• Les Champs Libres: cultural hub including the Musée de Bretagne (history and heritage of Brittany)
• Écomusée du Pays de Rennes: open-air museum on a historic farm, just outside the city

Rennes in pictures

Place St Anne	Palais St Georges (day view)	Palais St Georges (night view)
City Hall	Rennes Opera
Parlement de Bretagne (outside)	Parlement de Bretagne	Rue de Corbin

© Images Rebecca Dickason